Ampelopsis brevipedunculata
By Tara Grimes
Ampelopsis brevipedunculata, or porcelain vine, is part of the grapevine family. This vine was introduced from northeast Asia in the 1870's for ornamental use on estates. It is still being sold at garden centers for its ornamental appeal. Ampelopsis prefers a humid climate with cool winters. The porcelain vine is known as a vigorous, woody, deciduous, tendril bearing vine, climbing to 4 or 5 meters, and it can reach 8 to 10 meters in width so it’s a good vine for a difficult spot such as a narrow side area in the garden. Features mostly 3-lobed, deep green leaves that are hairy to the touch. Clusters of non-showy, greenish flowers appear in the leaf axils in July and give way in fall to showy clusters of rounded to oval, pale lilac-blue fruits, which mature to brighter and deeper shades of amethyst to porcelain blue. The berries are also inedible.
The plant responds well to humus rich, well drained soil and remember to water it thoroughly and often while
it’s growing. Adapts well to most soils, including sandy or rocky ones. But avoid wet, poorly drained soils, however. The vine should be planted in full sun to partial shade, the porcelain berries are showiest when grown in partial shade. This vine flowers on new growth, so it may be cut to the ground in late winter to control growth. Otherwise trim stems as needed to maintain desired shape. Once the leaves have fallen give it a couple of months, and trim it. It will bounce back. Seed is difficult to start, a better option would be to take hardwood cuttings, plant them in propagating mix although the cuttings won’t have leaves they should grow into a healthy vine.
This is a magnificent creeper to cover a large fence area, trellis or pergola. The porcelain vine may be hard to find in nurseries, but it will add some mystique to your garden.
Instructor: Chiwon Lee
Contact: Tara Grimes
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